Q’Apel Medical Zebra Neurovascular Access System Cleared by FDA

July 8, 2025—Q’Apel Medical, Inc. announced it has received FDA clearance for the Zebra neurovascular access system, which is indicated for the introduction of interventional devices into the peripheral and neuro vasculature.

According to the company, the Zebra device is available in 6- and 7-F sizes. The 6-F design expands intraprocedural options and compatibility to maximize procedural versatility for complex neurovascular interventions, and the 7-F design accommodates 0.072-inch aspiration catheters.

The company stated that Zebra features a distinctive pattern of laser-cut stripes to enhance dynamic flexibility from tip to tail. The device’s inner diameter–to–outer diameter ratio maximizes the inner lumen, without ledges, to provide optimal support during device delivery, stated Q’Apel.

Jan-Karl Burkhardt, MD, Division Head, Cerebrovascular Surgery at Penn Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, discussed the Zebra device in the Q’Apel press release.

“Fueled by an aging population and environmental factors, we continue to see an increase in neurovascular conditions, such as stroke and cerebral aneurysms, that require delicate interventions,” commented Dr. Burkhardt. “The tortuous anatomy can be challenging to access, requiring a balance of flexibility and support, which many traditional access catheters fail to deliver.”

Dr. Burkhardt continued, “I continue to be impressed by Zebra’s dynamic flexibility with each additional case. Its hallmark stripes provided stable support and maintained pushability throughout my procedures. I look forward to the versatility this novel design offers and expect it to become a mainstay for my neurovascular access cases.”